RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch

RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch by Wiesemann & Theis

The RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch by Wiesemann & Theis is a versatile solution for connecting three serial devices in almost any uni- or bidirectional 2:1 coupling. Equipped with three RS232 interfaces (one master port "C" with DTE assignment and two slave ports "A" and "B" with DCE assignment, all with 9-pin Sub-D connectors), the T-Switch enables flexible operating modes such as time-controlled switching or switching via control sequences. Each interface is independently configurable, supports conversion of baud rate, data format, and handshake protocol, and features a 1 MB buffer per data channel (Master C <> Slave A, Master C <> Slave B). With an industrial-grade design, DIN rail mounting, high immunity according to EN 61000-6-2, and flexible power supply up to 24 V, the T-Switch is ideal for industrial control cabinets. The integrated data return channel supports bidirectional peripherals such as printers, plotters, handheld scanners, or card readers, while the diagnostic and commissioning aid (settings dump) simplifies configuration. With a five-year warranty, the RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch offers a reliable solution for applications in Industry 4.0, automation technology, and building management. This article highlights the technical features, applications, and advantages of the RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch.

Flexible Switching Modes and Application Examples

The RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch allows flexible connection of three serial devices through two main operating modes: switching via control sequences and time-controlled switching. In the “switching via control sequences” mode, one computer can operate two serial devices by control sequences from one of the three interfaces controlling the switching. For example, an industrial PC can alternately operate two RS232 printers to prioritize print jobs. In the “time-controlled switching” mode, two computers share a serial peripheral, such as a printer, plotter, handheld scanner, or card reader, with the switching time individually adjustable. This is ideal for office environments where two workstations share a printer without requiring manual intervention. The T-Switch supports four data channels (Master C <> Slave A, Master C <> Slave B), each equipped with a 1 MB buffer to prevent data loss and ensure reliable communication. The integrated data return channel allows connection of bidirectional peripherals, such as handheld scanners that send status messages to the data sources. This flexibility makes the T-Switch ideal for applications in building management, automation technology, or Industry 4.0, where multiple devices must be efficiently connected.

Conversion of Serial Transmission Parameters

A key feature of the RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch is its ability to act as a baud rate converter. The three RS232 interfaces (one master port "C" with DTE assignment and two slave ports "A" and "B" with DCE assignment) are independently configurable, allowing individual adjustment of baud rate, data format, and handshake protocol. This enables connection of devices with different, non-configurable transmission parameters. For example, an older system running at 9600 baud can be connected via the T-Switch to a modern device at 115,200 baud without data loss. The 1 MB buffer per data channel ensures data is buffered to prevent overflows, while the handshake protocol controls data flow. This function is especially useful in automation technology where legacy systems must be combined with modern controllers, or in building management to integrate peripherals like card readers or scanners. The independent configurability of the interfaces makes the T-Switch a flexible solution for heterogeneous system environments.

Management and Connectivity

The RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch offers a wide range of features that expand its usage in industrial and office environments. The three RS232 interfaces (one master port "C" and two slave ports "A" and "B", all with 9-pin Sub-D connectors) allow connection of three serial devices in almost any 2:1 coupling. Support for bidirectional peripherals via the data return channel enables integration of devices that send feedback, such as printers or handheld scanners with status messages. The independently configurable interfaces allow adjustment of baud rate, data format, and handshake protocol, making the T-Switch a versatile solution for connecting heterogeneous systems. The integrated diagnostic and commissioning aid, such as the settings dump, facilitates configuration and troubleshooting, especially in complex industrial environments. The DIN rail enclosure enables easy mounting in industrial control cabinets, while the flexible power supply up to 24 V allows integration into various industrial power sources. This combination of flexibility, diagnostic functions, and industrial design makes the T-Switch ideal for applications in Industry 4.0 where reliable serial communication is critical.

Power Supply and Energy Efficiency

The RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch is powered via an external supply up to 24 V connected through a pluggable screw terminal. This wide supply voltage range offers flexibility in industrial environments where different power sources may be available. The energy-efficient architecture of the T-Switch minimizes power consumption, making it environmentally friendly and cost-effective. The robust power supply ensures reliable operation even in environments with fluctuating power sources, such as production facilities or building management systems. The 1 MB buffer per data channel ensures secure data buffering, enhancing reliability in critical applications. These features make the T-Switch especially suitable for scenarios where stable power supply and energy efficiency are crucial, such as automation technology or Industry 4.0.

Please note: The power supply is NOT included in the delivery.

Standards Compliance and Reliability

The RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch meets stringent standards for immunity (EN 61000-6-2) and emissions (EN 55032:2015 + A1 Class B, EN 61000-3-2, EN 61000-3-3), qualifying it for use in residential, commercial, and industrial environments. Its high immunity ensures reliable operation even in environments with electromagnetic disturbances, such as manufacturing plants or control centers. CE marking and UL certification confirm suitability for international applications, while the robust construction is designed for continuous operation. With a five-year warranty, the T-Switch provides a low-maintenance and durable solution for professional users. The combination of flexible switching modes, baud rate conversion, 1 MB buffer, and industrial design offers additional safety and stability, especially in demanding industrial scenarios.

Versatile Applications

The RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch is ideal for applications where three serial devices must be connected in a 2:1 coupling. In building management, the T-Switch enables the use of a card reader by two access control systems, with time-controlled switching ensuring smooth operation. For example, two PCs in an office can share an RS232 printer, with the T-Switch automatically switching between data sources to prioritize print jobs. In automation technology, the T-Switch supports connection of an industrial PC with two peripherals, such as plotters, with baud rate conversion ensuring compatibility between different systems. In Industry 4.0, switching via control sequences enables flexible connection of machine data to two analysis devices to support real-time monitoring and logging. The DIN rail mounting makes the T-Switch suitable for industrial control cabinets, while support for bidirectional devices and conversion of transmission parameters increases flexibility. The T-Switch is versatile, suitable for use from manufacturing plants to office environments.

Advantages of Flexible Switching Modes and DIN Rail Mounting

The flexible switching modes of the RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch (time-controlled switching and switching via control sequences) enable simple and efficient connection of three serial devices. The independently configurable interfaces allow adjustment of baud rate, data format, and handshake protocol, facilitating integration of heterogeneous systems. The 1 MB buffer per data channel ensures secure data buffering, while the integrated diagnostic and commissioning aid, such as the settings dump, simplifies configuration and troubleshooting. The DIN rail enclosure allows easy and stable mounting in industrial control cabinets, where space and order are crucial. Support for bidirectional communication and robust construction make the T-Switch particularly user-friendly and reliable. This combination of flexibility, rugged construction, and high performance is especially advantageous in environments where fast and reliable solutions are demanded, such as industry or automation technology.

Reliable and Flexible Solution for Serial Communication

The RS232 Universal Serial T-Switch by Wiesemann & Theis impresses with its ease of use, high reliability, and standards compliance. With three RS232 interfaces, flexible switching modes, 1 MB buffer, baud rate conversion, DIN rail mounting, and bidirectional communication, it is the ideal solution for applications in building management, automation technology, and Industry 4.0. The five-year warranty emphasizes the durability and quality of this compact solution.